Ruth Negga has taken a step closer to Oscar glory after being nominated for a Bafta award.

The Limerick native was nominated in the 'Rising Star' category, the only public-voted British Academy of Film and Television Arts (Bafta) Award.

The awards season looks set to be a big one for Negga thanks to her role in 'Loving', in which she stars as one half of an interracial couple who break the law by getting married in 1960s Virginia.

Joel Edgerton stars as her husband Richard in the film adaptation of a true story.

The role has already scored her Golden Globe and Critics' Choice Award nominations.

Earlier this week, Negga received the Rising Star Award at the Palm Springs International Film Festival in California.

Negga described her Bafta nomination as "surreal".

"I can't wait for the ceremony in London," she added.

The Bafta nominees include Tom Holland - the latest actor to don the 'Spider-Man' suit, as well as Spanish actress Laia Costa, known for 'Victoria', 'The Witch' actress Anya Taylor-Joy, and 'Manchester by the Sea' actor Lucas Hedges.

"I have to say thank you to Bafta for recognising my work and nominating me for the Rising Star Award," said Holland.

Past winners, who are voted for by the public, include 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' actor John Boyega and Oscar nominee Tom Hardy. Bafta will next week announce the full list of nominees for this year's film awards, which will be held on February 12.